Four mistakes to avoid when hiring a snow removal company

Planning to enlist the services of a professional snow removal company to do your heavy lifting this winter?

Here are some common mistakes to avoid during the process:

1. Trusting the first company you come across. Whatever you do, don’t sign anything on the spur of the moment. Do your research and take the time to compare the prices and services of several different businesses. You can also find out from your local consumer protection agency (e.g. the Better Business Bureau) whether any of your potential candidates were the object of complaints in the past.

2. Paying in advance. Be wary of making a down payment, full or partial, before the company has started to provide you its services. This will minimize your personal risk in the event of the company’s sudden closure or unexpected bankruptcy.

3. Forgoing a contract. Signing a written agreement with your snow removal company is crucial. The contract should include a detailed list of the services to be provided and outline any conditions (e.g. fee structure) that may apply. Bottom line: stay away from verbal agreements to avoid a nasty surprise down the road.

4. Neglecting insurance. Even the most experienced professional could inadvertently cause damage to your property with his or her equipment. Make sure you’re entitled to compensation should this occur by hiring a company with full liability insurance coverage, and verify that the contract includes a clause outlining exactly what this coverage entails.